Folsom Lake Symphony Maestro Peter Jaffe has continuously “raised the bar” of musicianship for the Folsom Lake Symphony and that, combined with efforts to secure fabulous guest artists, results in a stellar 2023-24 season that will excite audiences and is worthy of the symphony’s 20-year milestone celebration.

Season subscriptions are on sale now. Single concert tickets on sale at noon on Aug. 16. For more information visit www.folsomlakesymphony.com. The season ahead for the Folsom Lake Symphony is one not to be missed and includes the following highlights:

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Emerald Carpet Extravaganza, Oct. 14: The first concert of the season will feature pieces by Dave Brubeck/Paul Desmond, Tchaikovsky and Respighi. Violinist Chee-Yun’s flawlessly compelling technique, tone and artistry has enraptured audiences on five continents and now she joins the symphony as a guest artist. Charming, charismatic and deeply passionate about her art, Chee-Yun continues to carve a unique place for herself in the ever-evolving world of classical music.

The evening will begin with a farm to table al fresco buffet dinner artfully prepared by Table Nectar Catering. We will be pouring award-winning wines from Bellador Winery in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. Dinner and concert tickets are sold separately.

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Happy Holidays, Dec. 9 & 10: Celebrate the holiday season with performances showcasing the talents of Roberto Perlas Gomez (baritone) and the Northern California Children’s Chorus. A brilliant baritone and adorable young talents join the festivities for a program packed with goodies — “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “The Night Before Christmas,” “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire,” “O Holy Night,” “The Nutcracker” excerpts and many more.

That’s Amore!, Feb. 10, 2024: Hot off the trail from international touring and PBS specials, charismatic guest artist Pasquale Esposito (tenor) returns. Lovers will bask in a stellar evening that includes “That’s Amore,” “Besame Mucho,” Be My Love” and many other romantic Italian and Latin favorites.

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Titan, April 20, 2024: Now in his third decade of touring worldwide, American pianist Jon Nakamatsu continues to draw critic and public acclaim for his intensity, elegance and electrifying solo, concerto and chamber music performances. During this concert he will perform Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” and Mahler’s Symphony No. 1, “Titan,” among other pieces.

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“Carmina Burana,” June 8 & 9, 2024: Enjoy the vocal talents of Carrie Hennessey (soprano), Daniel Ebbers (tenor), Ralph Cato (baritone), the Music in the Mountains Chorus, Sacramento Master Singers and Northern California Children’s Chorus. With huge performing forces, scenes from spring, a tavern, a court of love, and the iconic O fortuna chorus that bookends the work, this blockbuster has become wildly popular ever since its premiere. With a combined chorus of 150 members, this is an experience not to be missed.

Be part of the Folsom Lake Symphony

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The Folsom Lake Symphony is looking for talented musicians to join the symphony family. Its annual additions will take place on Saturday, Aug. 19, at Folsom Lake College. The symphony has openings in all string sections and backup positions in the brass and wind sections. For more information visit folsomlakesymphony.com/auditions-2023-24.

Young Artist Competition applications open

Applications for the Folsom Lake Symphony’s inaugural Young Artist Competition are now being accepted. The purpose of the competition is to recognize and showcase the talents of young classical musicians.

The competition, held at the Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College, will be judged by a panel of professionals chaired by the symphony’s music director and conductor Peter Jaffe. Cash awards are given to division winners ($500 each) and the grand prize winner ($1,000). All winners will perform at the Young Artists Recital. The Grand Prize winner will also perform with the symphony at the Spring Family Concert.

The application period is open until Sept. 27. For more information visit folsomlakesymphony.com/yac.